PINT-SIZED POUR: YONA YONA ALE

Trans-Pacific: Nagano is best known as host of the 1998 Winter Olympics, but this part of the Japanese Alps also draws beer pilgrims. That’s due to Yo-Ho Brewing, a leader in Asia’s rising craft beer scene. This pale ale is an ideal introduction to the work of brewmaster Masafumi “Mori” Morita.

Sierra salute: While Morita is a fan of Paso Robles’ Firestone Walker, Yona Yona pays tribute to another California brewery: Sierra Nevada. If the flavors in Sierra Nevada Pale — full of vibrant, resinous Pacific Northwest hops — are a 10, Yona Yona has been turned down to 7. Hops nuzzle rather than bite; biscuit-like malts act as equal partners instead of supporting players.

Say what?: “Yona Yona” is Japanese for “every night,” an apt name for this versatile, easy-drinking brew.

Numbers: 5.5 percent alcohol by volume; about 35 bittering units.

Rating: Three bottles.

Note: Beers are rated from zero to five bottles, with five reserved for Olympic champions.